ISLAMABAD, December 11, 2024 – In a remarkable celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the sixth seminar in a transformative series was held at the Pakistan Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences (PIRS), ISRA University. The event, organized in collaboration with Saaya Association of People with Disabilities and HANDS Pakistan, under the umbrella of the Community Based Inclusive Development (CBID) Network Pakistan, emphasized this year’s theme: “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
The seminar provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions on inclusion, rights, and leadership. A key highlight of the event was an engaging presentation titled “Ensuring Sensitivity and Inclusivity of Persons with Disabilities in the Rights-based Development Process.” The presentation delved into strategies for fostering inclusivity in all facets of development, ensuring that persons with disabilities are integral participants and leaders in creating a sustainable future.
Participants included representatives from rehabilitation sciences, students, faculty, disability advocacy groups, and community development organizations, as well as individuals with disabilities. Together, they explored pathways to make inclusion a central pillar of societal growth.
The event emphasized the need for collective action to build a society where inclusion is not merely a goal but a way of life. Speakers reiterated the importance of adhering to the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and promoting equal opportunities for all.
The seminar resonated with the voices of persons with disabilities who shared their journeys, challenges, and aspirations for a more inclusive society. Their leadership and participation served as a testament to the transformative power of inclusion and advocacy.
This seminar marked a step forward in ensuring that the rights and voices of persons with disabilities are not only recognized but prioritized. As one participant aptly noted, “Inclusion isn’t charity; it’s about recognizing potential and enabling it to thrive.”
The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders—government bodies, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and society at large—to champion the cause of inclusivity. Together, they aim to ensure that persons with disabilities are leaders and active contributors to sustainable development.
As the International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us every year, true inclusion requires continuous effort and unwavering commitment. Events like this seminar at PIRS bring us closer to that ideal.
